Odisha's Honorarium Controversy: BJD and BJP Spar Over Announcement

The BJD accused Odisha's BJP government of taking credit for decisions made by the previous government, including monthly honorariums for Padma awardees and increased casual leave for women. They demand accountability following two tribal women's deaths allegedly due to government negligence.

In Odisha, a political controversy has erupted after the BJP government announced a Rs 30,000 monthly honorarium for Padma awardees, a move the Opposition BJD claims was originally decided by the previous administration led by Naveen Patnaik. BJD spokesperson Lelin Mohanty, in a press conference, stated that the Patnaik government had implemented a Rs 25,000 honorarium earlier this year, with payments commencing in April.

Mohanty further alleged that additional benefits, such as extra casual leave for women employees during menstrual cycles, were also commandeered by the BJP. Initially, 10 days were approved by the BJD government, whereas the Majhi government increased it to 12 days. He criticized the current administration for merely reiterating and taking credit for previously made announcements.

The BJD is also holding the BJP accountable for the deaths of two tribal women in Kandhamal district, citing negligence in PDS rice allocation. Food Supplies Minister KC Patra disputed these claims by pointing to past incidents under BJD's rule. Meanwhile, Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan denied awareness of past announcements involving Padma honorariums.

(With inputs from agencies.)